The Age editor-in-chief Mark Forbes has been stood down after a sexual harassment allegation.

Confirming the action after The Australian put questions to The Age’s publisher Fairfax Media, the company said: “Mark Forbes has been stood down pending the outcome of an investigation that is underway.

“Fairfax is committed to a safe workplace and has zero tolerance for any behaviour that does not meet the highest standards. Alex Lavelle, editor of The Age, will oversee the newsroom.”

The Australian understands the allegation was made in relation to an alleged incident that took place at an event linked to the recent The Age Music Victoria Awards.

News of Mr Forbes stepping down after nine months in the top position coincides with the prestigious Walkley Awards in Brisbane this evening, the annual event to recognise and reward excellence in journalism.

Mr Forbes could not be reached for comment.

After starting his career at Fairfax as a cadet in 1985, Mr Forbes was appointed editor-in-chief of The Age in April.

He was installed as acting editor-in-chief in February, replacing Andrew Holden.

Prior to his appointment, Mr Forbes was The Age’s news director for three years, and prior to this, editor of The Sunday Age from 2009 to 2013.

At the time of his appointment to the editor-in-chief position, Fairfax editorial director Sean Aylmer described Mr Forbes as an outstanding journalist “with a keen news sense and belief in quality reporting”.

Mr Forbes has held various roles at the publisher over the last 31 years, including stints as defence and foreign affairs correspondent in Canberra as well as Indonesia correspondent.

He has also worked at ABC’s current affairs program Four Corners and Seven Network.

Fairfax Media is publisher of The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, WAToday, Brisbane Times and the The Canberra Times.